Trastevere has long been known as one of Rome’s most exciting nightlife hubs. In fact, it’s often the area I recommend to anyone on my Rome food tours looking for a drink or two after the food-filled outing!

This buzzing riverside neighborhood attracts a blend of locals, travelers, and students, so there’s a suitable spot for you, no matter what you’re in the market for. In this breakdown of the best bars in Trastevere, you’ll find a diverse mix of casual, upscale, and quirky venues.

Types of Bars and Venues in Trastevere

Rustic Haunts

Big Hilda

Big Hilda is easily one of the best bars in Trastevere, with its warm, old-school interior and well-priced cocktails. If I could recommend one drink, it’d have to be the zingy Hugo spritz, especially on a warm day!

Big Hilda – 00153 Roma – Open every Monday to Thursday from 5:00 pm to 2:00 am and every Friday to Sunday from 12:00 pm to 2:00 am.

Bar San Calisto

Bar_San_Calisto_Trastevere

Photo credit: Bar San Calisto

A Trastevere institution, Bar San Calisto is an unmissable spot for a chilled-out drink. This humble tavern has a lengthy menu, though a glass of citrusy prosecco was my beverage of choice.

Bar San Calisto – 00153 Roma – Open every day from 6:30 am to 1:30 am.

Enotecas

Essenza

Essenza_Trastevere

Photo credit: Essenza

A chic yet cozy wine bar, Essenza is somewhere I wish I’d discovered sooner. They prepare some gorgeous cutting boards, and the generous servings of sweet prosciutto and nutty pecorino were a lovely match for my fruity sangiovese.

Essenza – 00153 Roma – Open every Monday to Thursday and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 12:00 am and every Friday and Saturday from 12:00 pm to 2:00 am.

Latteria

Latteria_Trastevere

Photo credit: Latteria

For natural wines, Latteria is the place to be. I’ve yet to sample the fare in this quaint enoteca, but if their earthy biodynamic whites are anything to go by, I’m confident it’s worth making the trip for.

Latteria – 00153 Roma – Open every Monday from 6:00 pm to 12:00 am and every Tuesday to Sunday from 11:00 am to 12:00 am.

Craft Beer Bars

Ma Che Siete Venuti A Fà

Ma_Che_Siete_Venuti_A_ Fà_Trastevere

Photo credit: Ma Che Siete Venuti A Fà

Ma Che Siete Venuti A Fà is the go-to Trastevere bar for beers. There’s always a vibrant atmosphere here, and even if you can’t find a seat, you’ll have just as much fun chatting with locals and sampling crisp IPAs.

Ma Che Siete Venuti A Fà – 00153 Roma – Open every day from 11:00 am to 2:00 am.

Delirium Café

Delirium_Café_Trastevere

Photo credit: Delirium Café

Delirium Café is a haven for beer drinkers, and the welcoming vibe in this wooden-clad bar always makes me feel right at home. They have a huge selection of beers, but the malty amber ale was the highlight for me.

Delirium Café – 00153 Roma – Closed every Monday, open Tuesday to Friday and Sunday from 6:00 pm to 2:00 pm, and every Saturday from 4:30 pm to 2:00 pm.

Cocktail Lounges

Freni e Frizioni

Freni_e_Frizioni_Trastevere

Photo credit: Freni e Frizioni

Freni e Frizioni is a funky spot that’s particularly great for an aperitivo. I first visited to sample their expansive aperitivo buffet, though their sweet pineapple and gin cocktail is what has me eager to return!

Freni e Frizioni – 00153 Roma – Open every day from 6:30 pm to 2:00 am.

Jerry Thomas Bar Room

Jerry_Thomas_Bar_Room_Trastevere

Photo credit: Jerry Thomas Bar Room

For a more paired-back cocktail night, I suggest checking out Jerry Thomas Bar Room. I loved the Orient Express-inspired retro decor and dimmed lighting, and the zesty Champagne and tequila creation was exceptional.

Jerry Thomas Bar Room – 00153 Roma – Open every day from 6:00 pm to 2:00 am.

Local Favorites vs. Tourist Spots

Both local and tourist-centered establishments are worth visiting, though I suggest you spend some time in both! 

Spots that are a street or two back from the likes of Piazza di Santa Maria tend to attract more locals. As such, you’ll usually be assured of a more authentic nightlife experience and, more often than not, lower prices.

However, if you have your heart set on securing the best views, you might prefer some of the more central bars along busier streets. You’ll likely need to pay a slightly higher price, but you’ll be just within steps of the main sights.

What to Drink: Cocktails, Wines, and More

Cocktails_Trastevere

If you’re unsure about what to order during your late-night exploration of Trastevere, I think these drink recommendations might be of interest to you.

  • Cocktails: Be sure to try Italian classics like an Aperol spritz, a negroni, or a limoncello spritz, though you’ll often find other cocktail options, too.
  • Wine: Sample Italian wines like barolo, pinot grigio, or lambrusco.
  • Beer: Choose between popular brews like Moretti or Peroni or craft alternatives.
  • Non-alcoholic beverages: Many bars offer alcohol-free cocktails and beers.

Food and Snacks That Pair with Drinks

Depending on the time of day, you might be served some snacks to enjoy alongside your drink. Some tasty combinations include:

  • White wine: Olives, burrata
  • Red wine: Suppli, pecorino cheese
  • Sparkling wine: Cured meats, seafood
  • Beer: Mini pizzas, potato chips, salted peanuts

The Aperitivo Hour: Ritual and Atmosphere

Whether you’re out for the evening or simply looking for a relaxed drink before getting an early night, I think you’ll love aperitivo hour in Trastevere.

If you’re unfamiliar with the concept, it’s essentially a pre-dinner tradition that involves sipping on a drink of your choice along with a selection of snacks or even access to a buffet. This beloved ritual usually runs from around 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm, and you can expect refreshing drinks, al fresco seating, and a lively atmosphere.

Practical Tips for Visiting Bars

  • Unless you’re visiting a more high-end establishment, there’s generally no need to make a reservation. Moreover, many Trastevere bars are walk-in only.
  • Most bars offer both indoor and outdoor seating, though patio tables tend to fill up fast when the sun comes out.
  • Tipping is optional and not expected, with most customers simply rounding up the bill.
  • Although you’ll typically be able to pay with a card, some bars only accept cash.

Final Thoughts: Drink in the Character of Trastevere

With this practical guide to Trastevere’s bars, you’ll be ready to dive into the social scene like a local. For people-watching, mingling, and quality drinks, there’s no better place to be in the city.

Sources:

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Rome food tours. Eating Europe. https://www.eatingeurope.com/rome/

Tripadvisor. (n.d.). Big Hilda pub. Tripadvisor. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187791-d4363528-Reviews-Big_Hilda_pub-Rome_Lazio.html

Bar San Calisto. (n.d.). Bar storico nel cuore di Trastevere. https://barsancalisto.it/

Essenza Wine Bar. (n.d.). Homepage. http://www.essenzawinebar.it/

Tripadvisor. (n.d.). Latteria Trastevere. Tripadvisor. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187791-d10066912-Reviews-Latteria_Trastevere-Rome_Lazio.html

Ma Che Siete Venuti a Fà. (n.d.). Homepage. https://www.football-pub.com/La Cucina Italiana

Delirium Café Roma. (n.d.). Homepage. https://www.deliriumcaferoma.com/

Freni e Frizioni. (n.d.). Homepage. https://www.freniefrizioni.com/

The Jerry Thomas Project. (n.d.). Bar room. https://www.thejerrythomasproject.it/bar-room/